MOTORING NEWS - The all-new Ford Fiesta is set to raise the stakes in the compact car segment by building on the successful outgoing model. It has been improved even further in terms of quality, refinement, technology and safety.
The Fiesta's fun-to-drive character has been retained and increased. The eye-catching new design means it will be on the list of trendsetters and young sophisticates. Not only does the car grab the eye, but the revolutionary interior delivers more space, comfort, ergonomics and technology.
Globally, the Fiesta is Ford's best-selling passenger car. The company says the new model represents a bold step forward in every area, from styling to the exceptional build quality, from superb craftsmanship of the interior to its smart features, safety and technology.
The award-winning 1,0 EcoBoost engine remains the powerhouse of the Fiesta. There is a choice of new six-speed manual or automatic transmissions, along with the option of the frugal 1,5-litre TDCi diesel engine. The Fiesta is available in two specification levels: the feature-rich Trend series and the range-topping Titanium with an outstanding level of standard equipment.
EVOLUTION IN EXTERIOR
The Fiesta's exterior builds on the bold styling of the outgoing model, with a more elegant design and more fluid look. Simpler and straighter lines and clean surfaces deliver visual appeal, which is matched by the wider grille. Sleek headlamps offer a new wrap-around effect that is part of the new model's strong visual character.
The side profile is more settled and less wedge-shaped than before, combining 71mm additional body length and 13mm additional width to give a longer and stronger appearance. At the rear, new horizontal rear lights enhance the Fiesta's widened stance and feature a C-shaped signature light pattern. In keeping with the fresh new looks, Ford has introduced two new metallic colour options for the range, Chrome Copper and Blue Wave.
CREATURE COMFORTS
The Fiesta interior has a strong emphasis on interactions that consumers demand through smart devices and tablets. It delivers a more spacious feel through the use of ergonomic design and soft-touch materials.
The number of buttons on the centre console is greatly reduced, with many connectivity and entertainment controls now on the 6,5" touchscreen fitted as standard on the Trend models. On the Titanium version it is an 8" screen incorporating SYNC3 with navigation. There's also a stylish new instrument cluster featuring a 4,2" multi-function TFT display that delivers an attractive welcome sequence.
Rear seat passengers benefit from 16mm more knee room, supported by new slim-back seats that are softer and offer better side support.
The tailgate is wider for easier access to the boot. Improved storage for personal belongings is delivered with a 20% larger glove box and a 1-litre storage bin and armrest in the middle.
SMARTER, STRONGER, SAFER
Fiesta's active and passive safety systems, with a comprehensive range of driver assistance technologies, deliver the highest safety rating to date for this model.
The new Fiesta body features 36% more steel for greater strength in key areas. Redesigned door cross sections further protect occupants against side impact intrusion. The doors also now contain pressure sensors that enable restraint systems to be activated several milliseconds sooner. Front, side and curtain airbags are standard.
Innovative restraint features include a locking seatbelt tongue for the driver's seat belt - a mechanically activated device that helps prevent slippage of the belt during an accident and eliminates the need for a driver's knee airbag. Rear outer seats also now feature load limiters and pre-tensioners to restrain passengers better and help prevent belt-related injuries.
Pedestrian protection is enhanced with headlamps that travel inwards on impact. A collapsible cowl and wiper spindle assembly is designed to give way in the event of head impacts.
All models have an extensive list of driving aids, including ABS brakes with electronic brake assist (EBA) and electronic brake force distribution (EBD), as well as hill launch assist (HLA) and electronic stability and traction control (ESC).
SOPHISTICATED POWER
A simplified range of sophisticated petrol and diesel engines offers performance and fuel efficiency that support an outstanding driving experience and reduced cost for owners.
Ford's six-time International Engine of the Year, the 1,0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, is offered in two variants. In the Trend model with its six-speed manual gearbox, as well as the Trend and Titanium equipped with a conventional six-speed torque converter automatic transmission, the 1,0 EcoBoost produces 74kW of power and 170Nm of torque from 1 500 to 4 000r/min.
The Fiesta Titanium, mated with a six-speed manual transmission, uses the 92kW version of this engine to deliver more exhilarating driving fun. Offering frugal fuel consumption, the 1,5-litre TDCi turbodiesel is exclusively available with a six-speed manual gearbox, producing 63kW and a torque peak of 175Nm. Fuel efficiency is enhanced with Auto–Start–Stop technology on all engines. An Eco button for manual transmissions adjusts engine and throttle settings to help drivers save even more fuel.
MORE FUN TO DRIVE
A 15% increase has been achieved in torsional stiffness, while the front track is 30mm wider, the rear track is up by 10mm and wheelbase by 4mm. A lighter, stiffer hollow front anti-roll bar contributes to better roll control and steering feel. Steering friction is reduced and gearboxes deliver smoother gear changes as a result.
The Fiesta's chassis now offers 10% more cornering grip, while the braking distance at 100km is reduced by more than 8%.
TECHNOLOGY
An unprecedented range of technology enhances the Fiesta's comfort, convenience and safety. Ford's SYNC3 communications and entertainment system enables Fiesta drivers to control audio, navigation and connected smartphones using simple voice commands. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - once it is launched for the Middle East and Africa region.
The Fiesta's floating, tablet-inspired 8" colour touch screen and infotainment system with navigation is standard on the Titanium and can be operated with pinch and swipe gestures. The Trend model also incorporates SYNC3, using a floating 6,5" colour touchscreen.
Fiesta delivers Bluetooth connectivity and two USB ports as standard, with an integrated CD player on all models. A high-end seven-speaker sound system is featured on the Fiesta Titanium models, with a six-speaker setup on the Trend models.
DETAILS
Fiesta 1,0 EcoBoost Trend 6MT - R261 900; Fiesta 1,0 EcoBoost Trend 6AT - R277 300; Fiesta 1,5 TDCi Trend 6MT - R292 500; Fiesta 1,0 EcoBoost Titanium 6MT - R295 900 and Fiesta 1,0 EcoBoost Titanium 6AT - R310 600.
All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four year or 120 000km comprehensive warranty, three year or unlimited distance roadside assistance and five year or unlimited kilometre corrosion warranty. A four year or 60 000km service plan is included. Service intervals are every 15 000km.
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